Shopping is inevitable when you’re having a baby. You need to set up the nursery, buy furniture, clothes, and toys for the latest addition to your family. But it’s not always easy to find special and interesting items for your newborn. Sure, you have a lot of choices at the big box stores or in the local mall. But what if you want something unique for your child?
Then it’s time to look beyond the local mall. There are so many stores out there that cater exclusively to younger customers – and their parents of course! Most of these hidden treasures are owned/operated by parents with children and are not part of a franchise or corporate chain. It’s probably why you may not have heard of them before. You won’t see their ads on TV but they are certainly popular in the local community.
In this new series, we attempt to highlight hidden gems and unique shopping experiences in cities across North America for your perusal. First stop, New York City!
Piccolini NYC is located at 167 Mott St, between Broome St and Grand St. The owners – parents themselves – have roots in the local community and it wasn’t a coincidence when they opened their store in 2011 at the spot where Chinatown meets Little Italy. The atmosphere is relaxed, the customer service is excellent and they even have a play area for kids so you can shop in peace.
What does Piccolini offer? The store has everything from baby clothes and accessories to toys and art supplies for little ones. Want a Star Wars themed coloring book? They have it. How about a cushy pillow shaped like the Earth with over 600 named places? Yup, they have that too! Piccolini features an entire line of organic products from rattles to bibs. If you want to be the best Dad/Mom/Relative, head on here and grab one of their NYC-themed products on display.
source: instagram.com/piccoliny
Pink Olive is another great store that sells cute baby clothes, toys, and jewelry. They have 2 locations – one store is at 4938, 439 E 9th St in the East Village and the other is at 30 Charles St near Greenwich Village. While it isn’t an exclusive store for children, they do have a variety of clothes and toys for babies and toddlers. A quaint shop with cute decorations, it’s easy to spend hours here and hard to walk away after you finish shopping!
source: instagram.com/pinkolive/
First launched in 2010, My Little Sunshine has become an asset to the NYC shopping experience. Located at 177 9th Ave close to the Chelsea Market and at 145 Hudson St in Tribeca, these stores sell baby clothes, accessories, toys, and haircuts. That’s right, haircuts!
My Little Sunshine NYC is quaint, cute and quiet, especially for a children’s store. Browse their excellent selection of clothes and toys while Denni cuts your child’s hair. Pick up a toy or two (you won’t be able to resist!) for your children and their friends. It’s not hard to see why it’s become a favorite spot for parents and kids alike!
source: instagram.com/mylittlesunnyc
If you’re looking for interesting clothes and toys, Space Kiddets has you covered. Located at East 22nd Street in the Flatiron District, this store has robotic action figures and clothes for babies as well as pre-teens. It has a funky vibe with some very beautiful and fun pieces. Beware though, that cute shirt you have your eye on won’t be there next week. You won’t find clothes or toys like this at your local big box store!
There you have it – four of the more unique places you can shop at for your little ones in New York City. All these stores have employees who are knowledgeable and helpful. You won’t walk away disappointed. Whether you’re looking for personalized gifts for a baby shower, clothes for a toddler or a unique toy for your own child, one of these stores is sure to have what you want. So hit them up next time you want to shop for children’s clothes and toys. Or even just for some quiet time with your kids!
source: http://www.spacekiddets.com/